#Japan #Kobe #AlphaDrive #Kobe City #SET SAIL

Kobe City Launches AI-Focused Program: SET SAIL

In a bold move to boost innovation and drive growth, Kobe City, alongside its operational partners AlphaDrive, Kobe Shimbun, and K.S. Rogers, has announced the initiation of the AI-focused support program, SET SAIL. This initiative is set to commence on June 5, 2026, targeting companies that already possess existing products and wish to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to elevate their business capabilities.

Overview of SET SAIL

The SET SAIL program is designed as a comprehensive support system that aims to assist businesses in both technical and operational dimensions. Its primary goal is to complete the implementation of AI-enabled products and accelerate business growth through concentrated support. Participating companies will receive individualized assistance from dedicated engineers and technical mentors throughout the program.

Leading the technical support team is K.S. Rogers Corp. (KSR), boasting over 200 engineers, including Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), Project Managers (PMs), and tech leads. These experts bring extensive experience in developing AI products across various industries and organizational sizes. KSR engineers will work closely with company personnel as Forward Deployed Engineers (FDEs), seamlessly integrating into the business environment to ensure practical implementation of AI tailored to existing workflows.

One of the remarkable features of this initiative is the collaboration with the Microsoft AI Co-Innovation Lab located in Kobe. This partnership aims to strengthen the support system for companies aspiring to expand both nationally and globally from their Kobe base.

Benefits of Participating in SET SAIL

The program has a range of benefits for its participants, including:

• - No Participation Fee: Enrollment in the SET SAIL program is completely free of charge.
• - Individualized Support: Each participant will receive personalized mentoring from KSR's engineers, who specialize in business development, product implementation, and AI expertise. Regular meetings and constant support ensure a collaborative approach towards achieving implementation milestones.
• - Comprehensive Technical Assistance: From developing Proof of Concept (PoC) prototypes to full-scale implementation, the program provides hands-on support at every step. Whether it’s generative AI, image recognition, or natural language processing, experts will guide participants in selecting and implementing the most suitable technologies.
• - Networking Opportunities: Participants will gain access to potential partnerships through their connections with the city of Kobe and Microsoft, facilitating market expansion efforts.

Support Structure

The support framework includes:

• - Technical Support from K.S. Rogers: Dedicated FDEs will collaborate directly with business personnel, ensuring AI implementations align with operational needs.
• - Continuous Onboarding Assistance: Through the use of communication tools, businesses will have constant access to support, making mentorship an ongoing process.
• - Expertise in AI Implementation: Support will cover everything from AI technology selection to practical integration within existing products.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in SET SAIL, companies must meet the following requirements:

• - Operate within Kobe or have plans for future establishment in the city. Startups with innovative ideas utilizing technology that aims for rapid growth are especially encouraged.
• - Have a product that aims to increase value through AI.
• - Designated personnel must be available to actively participate during the selection period.
• - All types of enterprises, including startups, small to medium-sized businesses, and individual entrepreneurs, can apply, regardless of AI expertise (support will be provided).

Application Process

Interested enterprises can apply starting June 5, 2026, with the application deadline set for June 30, 2026. The review process will take place until July 31, 2026, with notifications regarding selection outcomes issued shortly thereafter. Individual consultations are available upon request to assist with the application process.

For more details and to access the application form, visit: Application Form.

About AlphaDrive REGION

AlphaDrive REGION is dedicated to regional revitalization and economic policy initiatives. The organization's commitment extends beyond consulting, involving active risk-taking and various initiatives aimed at industrial promotion, workforce development, and attracting businesses. With an active presence in over 30 prefectures, AlphaDrive employs models that encourage local economic revitalization, while also reimagining regional economic policies in the age of AI through the AlphaDrive Regional Economic Research Institute.

For inquiries, please contact the Kobe Business Program Operational Office at: [email protected], available weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.